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<p>RECORD SALE</p>
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<img alt="Real Madrid signs Franco Mastantuono for €45m from River Plate" src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/galerie/mastan-spot-1749463812-169736.png" title="Real Madrid signs Franco Mastantuono for €45m from River Plate" />
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<p>Real Madrid has officially announced the signing of one of the world’s most sought-after young talents, Franco Mastantuono. The club reached an agreement with River Plate for a fee of €45 million back in July, and Mastantuono was unveiled to the Spanish press on August 14. The 17-year-old winger made waves during the Club World Cup with River Plate before transitioning from his boyhood club, becoming their record sale—previously held by Claudio Echeverri’s €18.5 million transfer to Manchester City.</p>
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<p>Following a challenging previous season, Madrid has been extremely proactive in the transfer market, securing the signings of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen. With Xabi Alonso stepping in for Carlo Ancelotti, the club now boasts the most valuable squad in the world. Mastantuono was heavily scouted by leading European clubs, including PSG, but Madrid emerged victorious in the pursuit of this exceptionally gifted winger.</p>
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<h2>Franco Mastantuono’s Remarkable Journey</h2>
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<p>Although his 18th birthday is still approaching in December, Mastantuono has already accumulated 64 senior appearances for River Plate. He became the club's third-youngest player when he debuted at just 16 in January 2024. Despite his youth, Mastantuono was entrusted with significant responsibilities at River, and he achieved a defining moment in April with a stunning free-kick against their arch-rivals, Boca Juniors.</p>
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<img alt="" height="629" src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/newsansicht/mastan-stats-1749463752-169735.png?lm=1749463761" width="503" />
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<p>Scott Christensen, Transfermarkt’s South American Area Manager, commented on Mastantuono, saying: "He began playing in the first division for a prestigious club like River at just 16 years old, which is quite rare. His personality stands out greatly. In high-pressure situations, like the Copa Libertadores or the Superclasico against Boca Juniors, he’s a player that is trusted." </p>
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<p>Mastantuono primarily operates on the right-wing, utilizing his potent left foot to cut inside, but he can also play as an attacking midfielder. With his market value soaring to €30 million in the latest Transfermarkt update, Mastantuono ranks as the second most valuable 17-year-old in the world, trailing only behind Lamine Yamal. Christensen highlights his exceptional abilities, stating, "He’s a small offensive midfielder, typical of many Argentinians. He’s incredibly talented, left-footed, and excels at operating between the lines. His size makes him difficult to defend, and he’s highly creative with excellent shooting and passing skills."
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